Cannabinoid Formulations for Aerosol Devices and Methods Thereof

ABSTRACT

The disclosure provides methods, formulations, and apparatus for making and using cannabinoid formulations.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/479194, filed Mar. 30, 2017,incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND Field of the Invention

The disclosure provides methods, formulations, and apparatus for makingand using cannabinoid formulations.

Description of Related Art

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds and increase the heart rate whenadministered to an animal or individual. Cannabinoid transfer to anindividual has been studied extensively, and research has substantiatedthat cannabinoids are medically beneficial in the treatment of anorexia,insomnia, nausea, pain relief, and associated with a feeling of physicaland/or emotional satisfaction, in individuals. Cannabinoidadministration decreased subjective ratings of pain in neuropathicpopulations, using a laboratory model of pain that has predictivevalidity for clinical efficacy of analgesics in non-pain populations.Some reports have posited that vaporized or aerosolized administrationsare preferred due to the faster onset and shorter duration of action,reduced exposure to harmful pyrolytic compounds, and the ability forpatients to titrate dosage to the desired effect. One non-limitingexample of a known shortcoming of the traditional cannabis cigarette isexposure to tar. Cannabinoid vaporization and/or aerosolizedadministration is a new technique that avoids the production ofirritating respiratory toxins by heating the cannabinoid formulation,described herein, to a temperature where active cannabinoid vapors form,but below the point of combustion where toxins are released.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoid liquidformulations comprising a cannabinoid extract, wherein the cannabinoidextract comprises one or more cannabinoids dissolved in a solvent; and abiologically acceptable liquid carrier comprised of glycerol, vegetableglycerin, propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, water, or ethanol. Infurther embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoid liquidformulations wherein the liquid carrier comprises propylene glycol andvegetable glycerin. In certain embodiments, the disclosure providescannabinoid liquid formulations wherein liquid carrier comprises between80% and 50% propylene glycol, and between 20% and 50% vegetableglycerin. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoidliquid formulations wherein the liquid carrier comprises 70% propyleneglycol and 30% vegetable glycerin, or 80% propylene glycol and 20%vegetable glycerin.

In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoid liquidformulations comprising a cannabinoid extract, wherein the cannabinoidextract comprises one or more cannabinoids dissolved in a solvent, andwherein the solvent is characterized by a vapor pressure less than 25bar at 50° C. In other embodiments, the solvent is characterized byvapor pressure of 10 to 10 000 bar at 25° C. In embodiments, the solventis CO₂, methane, ethane, propane, butane, pentane, hexane, heptane,octane, nonane, decane, undecane, dodecane, tridecane, tetradecane,pentadecane, hexadecane, heptadecane, octadecane, nonadecane, oreicosane. In particular embodiments, the solvent is propane, butane, orpentane.

In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoid liquidformulations comprising cannabinoids, wherein the liquid formulation hasa cannabinoid concentration of about 1% (w/w) to about 50% (w/w), about1% (w/w) to about 35% (w/w), about 4% (w/w) to about 25% (w/w), about 4%(w/w) to about 15% (w/w), about 0.5% (w/w) to about 10% (w/w), about0.5% (w/w) to about 5% (w/w), or about 0.5% (w/w) to about 1% (w/w). Inparticular embodiments, the liquid formulation has a cannabinoidconcentration of about 5% (w/w) to about 10% (w/w).

In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides cannabinoid liquidformulations, and further comprising one or more flavorants.

In certain embodiments of the liquid formulation of the disclosure, oneor more cannabinoids are synthetic, and have a purity of greater thanabout 80% pure, greater than about 85% pure, greater than about 90%pure, greater than about 95% pure, or greater than about 99% pure.

Certain embodiments of the disclosure also provide an electroniccigarette for delivering inhalable aerosol comprising, a fluid storagecompartment, a cannabinoid liquid formulation disposed within the fluidstorage compartment, a heater, a battery, and a mouthpiece.

In certain embodiments, the liquid formulation comprises a solvent witha melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operating temperatureof the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than 300 degreeslower than the operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, and atleast a 15-degree difference between the melting point and the boilingpoint.

In certain embodiments, the liquid formulation comprises a solvent witha melting point less than 55 C., a boiling point greater than −165 C.,and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting point and theboiling point.

In certain embodiments, the heater of the electronic cigarette thedisclosure has an operating temperature between 150 C. and 250 C., orbetween 180 C and 220 C. In some embodiments, the heater of theelectronic cigarette has an operating temperature of 200 C.

Certain embodiments of the disclosure also provide a cartomizer for anelectronic cigarette comprising a cannabinoid liquid formulationcomprising a cannabinoid extract and a biologically acceptable liquidcarrier, a fluid storage compartment, and an atomizer comprising aheating element in fluid communication with the cannabinoid liquidformulation.

Certain embodiments s of the disclosure also provide a cartridge for usein an electronic cigarette comprising a cannabinoid liquid formulationcomprising a cannabinoid extract and a biologically acceptable liquidcarrier.

In certain embodiments, the disclosure provides a kit comprising anelectronic cigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol, a cartridgecontaining a cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising, wherein theliquid formulation is a cannabinoid extract in a biologically acceptableliquid carrier; and instructions for using the electronic cigarette togenerate an inhalable aerosol.

The disclore also provides a method of preparing a liquid cannabinoidformulation comprising, introducing a suitable organic solvent to acannabis plant or part thereof to form a neat mixture comprising acannabinoid extract, purging the organic solvent out of the neat mixtureat ambient or elevated temperature to form a purged cannabinoid extract,and diluting the purged cannabinoid extract with a mixture of propyleneglycol and glycerin. In certain embodiments of the method, the organicsolvent is completely purged from the cannabinoid extract prior todiluting with the carrier mixture. In some embodiments, the mixture ofpropylene glycol and glycerin comprises a solution of 8:2 or 3:7 ratioby weight of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. In someembodiments, the method of preparing a liquid cannabinoid formulation ofthe disclosure further comprising adding one or more exogenousflavorants. In embodiments, the method of preparing the liquidcannabinoid formulation results in a formulation with two or morecannabinoids.

In some embodiments, the disclosure provides a method of administeringcannabinoids comprising, heating a cannabinoid liquid formulation of thedisclosure to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising one or morecannabinoids, and inhaling the aerosol. In certain embodiments, themethod of administering cannibanoids comprises heating a liquidcannabinoid formulation of the disclosure with an electronic cigaretteoperated at between 150 C. and 250 C., or between 180 C. and 220 C. Inembodiments, the methods of the disclosure generates an inhablableaerosol comprising a condensate of one or more cannabinoids, wherein thecondensate comprises particle sizes from about 0.1 microns to about 5microns, from about 0.1 microns to about 1 or 2 microns, from about 0.1microns to about 0.7 microns, or from about 0.3 microns to about 0.4microns. In embodiments, the method of the disclosure generates aninhablable aerosol that comprises about 1% to about 50% (w/w)cannabinoid.

In embodiments, the method of administering cannabinoids disclosedherein results in a maximum blood cannabinoid concentration (C_(max))over 10 ng/mL, between 10 ng/mL and 16 ng/mL, between 11 ng/mL and 15ng/mL, or between 11 ng/mL and 14 ng/mL.

In embodiments, the method of administering cannabinoids disclosedherein results in a time at which the maximum concentration ofcannabinoid is measured in the blood (T_(max)) of under 25 minutes,under 20 minutes, under 15 minutes, or under 10 minutes. In someembodiments, the method of administering cannabinoids disclosed hereinresults in a time at which the maximum concentration of cannabinoid ismeasured in the blood (T_(max)) of between 3 minutes to 7.5 minutes.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will bemore fully understood from the following detailed description takentogether with the accompanying claims. It is noted that the scope of theclaims is defined by the recitations therein and not by the specificdiscussion of features and advantages set forth in the presentdescription.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description can be best understood when read inconjunction with the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates results of heart rate data measured for 200 minutesfrom start of puffing. Y-axis is heart rate (bpm) and X-axis representduration of the test (0 to 200 minutes);

FIG. 2 illustrates results of heart rate data measured for 200 minutesfrom start of puffing. Y-axis is heart rate (bpm) and X-axis representsduration of the test (0 to 200 minutes);

FIG. 3 illustrates the calculated vapor pressures of various organicsolvents relative to cannabinoids;

FIG. 4 illustrates the pharmacokinetic profiles for seven test articlesin a blood plasma study;

FIG. 5 illustrates the comparison of Cmax and Tmax for six test articlesin a blood plasma study;

FIG. 6 illustrates the comparison of C_(max) and AUC for six testarticles in a blood plasma study;

FIG. 7 depicts an example embodiment of an electronic cigarette having afluid storage compartment comprising an embodiment cannabinoidformulation described herein; and

FIG. 8 depicts an example embodiment of an electronic cigarettecartomizer having a fluid storage compartment, a heater, and comprisingan embodiment cannabinoid formulation described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain embodiments of the disclosure provide cannabinoid formulationswith pain relief and therapeutic benefits superior to that of oralcannabinoid administration, and more comparable to the pain relief in anindividual smoking a traditional cannabis cigarette. In embodiments, thedisclosure provides efficient transfer of cannabinoid to the lungs of anindividual and a rapid rise of cannabinoid absorption in the plasma asshown, for non-limiting example, in Example 8. In some embodiments, thedisclosure provides cannabinoid formulations with unexpected pain reliefeffects, and greater satisfaction for users, than other cannabinoidformulations. For example, embodiments of the disclosure provideunexpected results associated with blood plasma levels achieved with thecannabinoid formulations herein. In certain embodiments, the disclosureprovides methods and formulations that achieve advantageous improvementsin cannabinoid uptake in the blood relative to previous methods andformulations, such as higher uptake from the present cannabinoidformulations aerosolized by an electronic cigarette. Therefore,described herein are cannabinoid formulations for use in an electroniccigarette, or comparable devices, that provide a general pain reliefeffect, therapeutic benefit, and/or satisfaction consistent with anefficient transfer of cannabinoid to the lungs of an individual and arapid rise of cannabinoid absorption in the plasma. In embodiements, thedisclosure provides devices, formulation of cannabinoid, systems,cartomizers, kits and methods that are used to inhale an aerosolgenerated from a cannabinoid liquid formulation through the mouth ornose as described herein or as would be obvious to one of skill in theart upon reading the disclosure herein.

Provided herein is a method of delivering cannabinoid to a usercomprising operating an aerosol inhalation device, also known as“electronic cigarette” to a user wherein the electronic cigarettecomprises a cannabinoid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure <25 bar at50° C., and inhaling an aerosol generated from the cannabinoidformulation heated by the electronic cigarette.

Provided herein is a method of delivering cannabinoid to a usercomprising operating an electronic cigarette to a user wherein theelectronic cigarette comprises a cannabinoid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized byvapor pressure of about 100 to 10000 bar at 25° C., and inhaling anaerosol generated from the cannabinoid formulation heated by theelectronic cigarette.

Provided herein is a method of delivering cannabinoid to a usercomprising operating an electronic cigarette wherein the electroniccigarette comprises a cannabinoid formulation comprising a cannabinoidin a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solventused to form said cannabinoids are further characterized by a meltingpoint <55° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at least a 15-degreedifference between the melting point and the boiling point, and inhalingan aerosol generated from the cannabinoid formulation heated by theelectronic cigarette.

Provided herein is a method of delivering cannabinoids to a usercomprising providing an electronic cigarette to a user wherein theelectronic cigarette comprises a cannabinoid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterizedby a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting pointand the boiling point, and inhaling an aerosol generated from thecannabinoid formulation heated by the electronic cigarette. Inembodiments, operating temperature of the electronic cigarette is from150° C. to 250° C. In other embodiments, operating temperature of theelectronic cigarette is from 180° C. to 220° C. In still otherembodiments, the operating temperature of the electronic cigarette isabout 200° C.

Certain embodiments of the methods provided herein comprise deliveringcannabinoids to the blood of a user, said methods comprising providingan aerosol that is inhaled by the user from an electronic cigarette thatcomprises a cannabinoid formulation wherein providing the aerosolcomprises the electronic cigarette heating the formulation therebygenerating the aerosol, wherein the aerosol is effective in delivering alevel of cannabinoid in the blood of the user that is at least 0.20ng/mL at about 1.5 minutes after a first puff of ten puffs of theaerosol, each puff taken at 30 second intervals. In certain embodimentsthe aerosol comprises a condensate of cannabinoid. In embodiments theaerosol comprises condensate of multiple cannabinoids. In embodimentsthe aerosol comprises condensate of cannabinoid and condensate of thecarrier. In certain embodiments the aerosol comprises condensate ofcannabinoid and condensate of the organic solvent. In embodiments theaerosol comprises condensate in particle sizes from about 0.1 microns toabout 5 microns. In embodiments the aerosol comprises condensate inparticle sizes from about 0.1 microns to about 1 or 2 microns. Incertain embodiments the aerosol comprises condensate in particle sizesfrom about 0.1 microns to about 0.7 microns. In embodiments the aerosolcomprises condensate in particle sizes from about 0.3 microns to about0.4 microns.

In certain embodiments, the methods provided herein result in a maximumblood cannabinoid concentration (C_(max)) over 10 ng/mL, or over 11ng/mL. between 10 ng/mL and 16 ng/mL between 11 ng/mL and 15 ng/mL onaverage. In certain embodiments, the methods provided herein result in amaximum blood cannabinoid concentration (C_(max)) between 10 ng/mL and16 ng/mL, is between 11 ng/mL and 15 ng/mL, or between 11 ng/mL and 14ng/mL.

In certain embodiments s of the method herein, inhaling the aerosolresults in a time at which the maximum concentration of cannabinoid ismeasured in the blood (T_(max)) of under 25 minutes, under 20 minutes,under 15 minutes, or under 10 minutes. In some embodiments, inhaling theaerosol results in a time at which the maximum concentration ofcannabinoid is measured (T_(max)) of from 3 minutes to 15 minutes, orfrom 3 minutes to 7.5 minutes.

In certain embodiments, the heating of the formulation is at atemperature from 75° C. to 325° C., a temperature from 180° C. to 220°C., or a temperature of about 200° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation in an electroniccigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating in theelectronic cigarette, the formulation in the cigarette comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized byvapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation in an electroniccigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating in theelectronic cigarette, the formulation in the cigarette comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized byvapor pressure of about 100 to 10 000 bar at 25° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation in an electroniccigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating in theelectronic cigarette, the formulation in the cigarette comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterizedby a melting point <55° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at least a15-degree difference between the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation in an electroniccigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating in theelectronic cigarette, the formulation in the cigarette comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterizedby a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting pointand the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for generating aninhalable aerosol upon heating in the electronic cigarette, thecannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure <25 bar at50° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for generating aninhalable aerosol upon heating in the electronic cigarette, thecannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure of about100 to 10 000 bar at 25° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for generating aninhalable aerosol upon heating in the electronic cigarette, thecannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are further characterized by a melting point<160° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at least a 15-degree differencebetween the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for generating aninhalable aerosol upon heating in the electronic cigarette, thecannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are further characterized by a melting pointat least 20 degrees lower than an operating temperature of theelectronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than 300 degrees lowerthan the operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, and at leasta 15-degree difference between the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for use in anelectronic cigarette the cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized byvapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for use in anelectronic cigarette the cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized byvapor pressure of about 100 to 10 000 bar at 25° C.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for use in anelectronic cigarette the cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterizedby a melting point <55° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at least a15-degree difference between the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cannabinoid liquid formulation for use in anelectronic cigarette the cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterizedby a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting pointand the boiling point.

Provided herein is a use of a cannabinoid formulation for delivery ofcannabinoid to a user from an electronic cigarette wherein thecannabinoid formulation comprises a cannabinoid in a biologicallyacceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent used to form saidcannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C., andthe cannabinoid formulation is heated by the electronic cigarette togenerate an aerosol inhalable by the user.

Provided herein is a use of a cannabinoid formulation for delivery ofcannabinoid to a user from an electronic cigarette wherein thecannabinoid formulation comprises a cannabinoid in a biologicallyacceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent used to form saidcannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure of about 100 to 10 000bar at 25° C., and the cannabinoid formulation is heated by theelectronic cigarette to generate an aerosol inhalable by the user.

Provided herein is a use of a cannabinoid formulation for delivery ofcannabinoid to a user from an electronic cigarette wherein thecannabinoid formulation comprises a cannabinoid in a biologicallyacceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent used to form saidcannabinoids are further characterized by a melting point <55° C., aboiling point >−165° C., and at least a 15-degree difference between themelting point and the boiling point, and the cannabinoid formulation isheated by the electronic cigarette to generate an aerosol inhalable bythe user.

Provided herein is a use of a cannabinoid formulation for delivery ofcannabinoid to the blood of a user from an electronic cigarette, whereinthe cannabinoid formulation in the electronic cigarette is heated toform an aerosol which delivers a level of cannabinoid in the blood ofthe user that is at least 0.20 ng/mL at about 1.5 minutes after a firstpuff of ten puffs of the aerosol, each puff taken at 30 secondintervals.

Provided herein is a use of a cannabinoid formulation for delivery ofcannabinoid to a user from an electronic cigarette wherein thecannabinoid formulation comprises a cannabinoid salt in a biologicallyacceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent used to form saidcannabinoids are further characterized by a melting point at least 20degrees lower than an operating temperature of the electronic cigarette,a boiling point no more than 300 degrees lower than the operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, and at least a 15-degreedifference between the melting point and the boiling point, and thecannabinoid formulation is heated by the electronic cigarette togenerate an aerosol inhalable by the user.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid formulation comprises acannabinoid in a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein anorganic solvent used to form said cannabinoid is further characterizedby a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than the operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting pointand the boiling point; and the operating temperature is 200° C.

Provided herein is a cartomizer for an electronic cigarette comprising:

-   -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a        biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by        vapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C.;    -   an atomizer comprising a heating element in fluid communication        with the cannabinoid liquid formulation; and    -   a fluid storage compartment that stores the cannabinoid liquid        formulation.

Provided herein is a cartomizer for an electronic cigarette comprising:

-   -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a        biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by        vapor pressure of about 100 to 10000 bar at 25° C.;    -   an atomizer comprising a heating element in fluid communication        with the cannabinoid liquid formulation; and    -   a fluid storage compartment that stores the cannabinoid liquid        formulation.

Provided herein is a cartomizer for an electronic cigarette comprising:

-   -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a        biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterized        by a melting point <55° C., a boiling point >−165 ° C., and at        least a 15-degree difference between the melting point and the        boiling point;    -   an atomizer comprising a heating element in fluid communication        with the cannabinoid liquid formulation; and    -   a fluid storage compartment that stores the cannabinoid liquid        formulation.

Provided herein is a cartomizer for an electronic cigarette comprising:

-   -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a        biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterized        by a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operating        temperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more        than 300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the        electronic cigarette, and at least a 20-degree difference        between the melting point and the boiling point;    -   an atomizer comprising a heating element in fluid communication        with the cannabinoid liquid formulation; and    -   a fluid storage compartment that stores the cannabinoid liquid        formulation.

Provided herein is an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalableaerosol comprising:

-   -   a fluid storage compartment;    -   a heater; and    -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation in the fluid storage        compartment, the liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in        a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by        vapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C.;    -   a battery; and    -   a mouthpiece.

Provided herein is an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalableaerosol comprising:

-   -   a fluid storage compartment;    -   a heater; and    -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation in the fluid storage        compartment, the liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in        a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by        vapor pressure of about 100 to 10000 bar at 25° C.;    -   a battery;    -   and a mouthpiece.

Provided herein is an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalableaerosol comprising:

-   -   a fluid storage compartment;    -   a heater; and    -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation in the fluid storage        compartment, the liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in        a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterized        by a melting point <55° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at        least a 15-degree difference between the melting point and the        boiling point;    -   a battery;    -   and a mouthpiece.

Provided herein is an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalableaerosol comprising:

-   -   a fluid storage compartment;    -   a heater; and    -   a cannabinoid liquid formulation in the fluid storage        compartment, the liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in        a biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic        solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further characterized        by a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than an operating        temperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more        than 300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the        electronic cigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference        between the melting point and the boiling point;    -   a battery; and a mouthpiece.

Provided herein is a cartridge in an electronic cigarette comprising afluid storage compartment, wherein the fluid storage compartment storesa cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure <25 bar at50° C.

Provided herein is a cartridge in an electronic cigarette comprising afluid storage compartment, wherein the fluid storage compartment storesa cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by vapor pressure of about100 to 10000 bar at 25° C.

Provided herein is a cartridge in an electronic cigarette comprising afluid storage compartment, wherein the fluid storage compartment storesa cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are further characterized by a melting point<55° C., a boiling point >−165° C., and at least a 15-degree differencebetween the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a cartridge in an electronic cigarette comprising afluid storage compartment, wherein the fluid storage compartment storesa cannabinoid liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are further characterized by a melting pointat least 20 degrees lower than an operating temperature of theelectronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than 300 degrees lowerthan the operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, and at leasta 15-degree difference between the melting point and the boiling point.

Provided herein is a kit comprising:

-   -   (a) an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol        comprising        -   I. a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle;        -   II. a cartridge comprising a fluid storage compartment,            wherein the fluid storage compartment stores a cannabinoid            liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a            biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic            solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by            vapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C.;        -   III. a heater;        -   IV. a battery; and        -   V. a mouthpiece; and    -   (b) instructions for using the electronic cigarette to generate        an inhalable aerosol.

Provided herein is a kit comprising:

-   -   (a) an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol        comprising        -   I. a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle;        -   II. a cartridge comprising a fluid storage compartment,            wherein the fluid storage compartment stores a cannabinoid            liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a            biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic            solvent used to form said cannabinoids are characterized by            vapor pressure of about 100 to 10000 bar at 25° C.;        -   III. a heater;        -   IV. a battery; and        -   V.. a mouthpiece; and    -   (b) instructions for using the electronic cigarette to generate        an inhalable aerosol.

Provided herein is a kit comprising:

-   -   (a) an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol        comprising        -   I. a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle;        -   II. a cartridge comprising a fluid storage compartment,            wherein the fluid storage compartment stores a cannabinoid            liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a            biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic            solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further            characterized by a melting point <55° C., a boiling            point >−165° C., and at least a 15-degree difference between            the melting point and the boiling point;        -   III. a heater;        -   IV. a battery; and        -   V. a mouthpiece; and    -   (b) instructions for using the electronic cigarette to generate        an inhalable aerosol.

Provided herein is a kit comprising:

-   -   (a) an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalable aerosol        comprising        -   I. a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle;        -   II. a cartridge comprising a fluid storage compartment,            wherein the fluid storage compartment stores a cannabinoid            liquid formulation comprising a cannabinoid in a            biologically acceptable liquid carrier wherein an organic            solvent used to form said cannabinoids are further            characterized by a melting point at least 20 degrees lower            than an operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, a            boiling point no more than 300 degrees lower than the            operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, and at            least a 15-degree difference between the melting point and            the boiling point;        -   III. a heater;        -   IV. a battery; and        -   V. a mouthpiece; and    -   (b) instructions for using the electronic cigarette to generate        an inhalable aerosol.

As provided herein, it has unexpectedly been found that there is adifference between the C_(max) (maximum concentration) and T_(max) (timeat which the maximum concentration is measured) when measuring bloodplasma cannabinoid levels of cannabinoid formulations provided hereininhaled using a low temperature vaporization device, i.e. electroniccigarette, as compared to the C_(max) and T_(max) (similarly measuringblood plasma cannabinoid levels) of a traditional cannabis cigarette.Also provided herein, it has unexpectedly been found herein that thereis a difference between the C_(max) (maximum concentration) and T_(max)(time at which the maximum concentration is measured) when measuringblood plasma cannabinoid levels of the cannabinoid formulations of thedisclosure inhaled using a low temperature vaporization device, i.e.electronic cigarette, as compared to the C_(max) and T_(max) (similarlymeasuring blood plasma cannabinoid levels) of other known cannabinoidformulations inhaled using a low temperature vaporization device, i.e.electronic cigarette. Additionally, it has unexpectedly been found thatthere is a difference between the rate of cannabinoid uptake in theplasma of users inhaling cannabinoid formulations provided herein usinga low temperature vaporization device, i.e. electronic cigarette, ascompared to the rate of cannabinoid uptake in the plasma of usersinhaling smoke of a traditional cannabis cigarette. Furthermore, it hasunexpectedly been found that there is a difference between the rate ofcannabinoid uptake in the plasma of users inhaling cannabinoidformulations provided herein using a low temperature vaporizationdevice, i.e. electronic cigarette, as compared to the rate ofcannabinoid uptake in the plasma of users taking other known cannabinoidformulations.

Also consistent with these satisfaction effects, it has unexpectedlybeen found herein that while there appears to be comparable C_(max) andT_(max) values (measuring blood plasma cannabinoid levels) ofcannabinoid formulations inhaled using a low temperature vaporizationdevice, i.e. electronic cigarette, as compared to the C_(max) andT_(max) (similarly measuring blood plasma cannabinoid levels) of atraditional cannabis cigarette, there is a demonstrable differencebetween the rate of cannabinoid uptake in the plasma of users inhalingcertain cannabinoid formulations using a low temperature vaporizationdevice, i.e. electronic cigarette, as compared to the rate ofcannabinoid uptake in the plasma of users inhaling other cannabinoidformulations using a low temperature vaporization device, i.e.electronic cigarette. It is also unexpected that while the C_(max) andT_(max) values are comparable to those of a traditional cannabiscigarette, (or are approaching that of a traditional cannabiscigarette), the rate of cannabinoid uptake in the plasma of blood ofusers is higher in certain cannabinoid formulations than that of thetraditional cannabis cigarette. The cannabinoid formulations thatdemonstrate the quickest rate of cannabinoid uptake in the plasma weremore preferred in satisfaction evaluations, and were rated moreequivalent to cannabis cigarette satisfaction than the cannabinoidformulations showing the slowest rates of rise of cannabinoid in thesubjects' blood plasma. In addition, increasing the concentration of thecannabinoid in the formulation may not necessarily impact the rate ofabsorption of cannabinoid in the blood (see, for non-limiting exampleExample 8, cannabinoid formulations tested in 45% and 30%concentrations).

Thus, considering all cannabinoid formulations used in e-cigarettes,some cannabinoid formulations delivered using an e-cigarette appearcomparable in C_(max) and T_(max) values (measuring blood plasmacannabinoid levels), however, not all cannabinoids perform similarly toeach other or to a traditional cannabis cigarette with respect to therate of cannabinoid uptake in the blood at early time periods (0-30minutes). These results are unexpected. Cannabinoid formulations madeusing organic solvents having a Vapor Pressure between 10 to 10000 bar @25° C., or Vapor Pressure <25 bar @ 50° C., or a Vapor Pressure from 10to 10000 bar @ 25° C., or a Vapor Pressure from 100 to 10000 bar @ 25°C., a Vapor Pressure between 100 and 10000 bar @ 25° C. appear to have ahigher rate of cannabinoid uptake in the blood at early time periods(0-5 minutes, 0-10 minutes, 0-15 minutes, 0-30 minutes for non-limitingexample) than other cannabinoid formulations, however, they also providepain relief, therapeutic benefit, and satisfaction comparable to atraditional cannabis cigarette or closer to a traditional cannabiscigarette (as compared to oral cannabinoid formulations or as comparedto other cannabinoid formulations). For non-limiting example, organicsolvents that meet one or more criteria of the prior sentence includepropane, butane, pentane, and CO₂. Cannabinoid formulations made usingorganic solvents that have a difference between boiling point andmelting point of at least 15° C., and a boiling point greater than −165°C., and a melting point less than 55° C. appear to have a higher rate ofcannabinoid uptake in the blood at early time periods (0-1.5 minutes,0-2 minutes, 0-3 minutes, 0-4 minutes for non-limiting example) thanother cannabinoid formulations, however, they also provide satisfactioncomparable to a traditional cigarette or closer to a traditionalcigarette (as compared to oral cannabinoid formulations or as comparedto other cannabinoid formulations). For non-limiting example, organicsolvents that meet the criteria of the prior sentence include propane,butane, pentane, and CO₂. Cannabinoid formulations made using organicsolvents that have a difference between boiling point and melting pointof at least 15° C., and a boiling point at most 300° C. less thanoperating temperature, and a melting point at least 20° C. lower thanoperating temperature appear to have a higher rate of cannabinoid uptakein the blood at early time periods (0-1.5 minutes, 0-2 minutes, 0-3minutes, 0-4 minutes for non-limiting example) than other cannabinoidformulations, however, they also provide satisfaction comparable to atraditional cannabis cigarette or closer to a traditional cannabiscigarette (as compared to oral cannabinoid formulations or as comparedto other cannabinoid formulations).

In certain embodiments, the operating temperature is about 75° C. toabout 325° C., 100° C. to 300° C., or about 200° C., about 150° C. toabout 250° C., 180 C. to 220° C., about 180° C. to about 220° C., 185°C. to 215° C., about 185° C. to about 215° C., about 190° C. to about210° C., 190° C. to 210° C., 195° C. to 205° C., or about 195° C. toabout 205° C. For non-limiting example, organic solvents that meet thecriteria of the prior sentence include propane, butane, pentane, andCO2. Combinations of these criteria for preference of certaincannabinoid formulations are contemplated herein.

Other reasons for excluding certain organic solvents from formulationsmay be unrelated to the rate of cannabinoid uptake, however. Forexample, an organic solvent may be inappropriate for use with the devicematerials (corrosive or otherwise incompatible). An organic solvent maybe inappropriate for use in inhalation or for toxicity reasons—thus notbe compatible for human consumption, ingestion, or inhalation (dependingon the embodiment of the composition). An organic solvent that is bitteror otherwise bad-tasting may also provide a reason for exclusion, insome embodiments. Organic solvents that oxidize at room temperature orat operating temperature may be inappropriate for certain embodiments,as this indicates a decomposition or reaction or instability that may beundesirable in the formulation. Decomposition of organic solvents atroom or operating temperatures may also indicate that the organicsolvent is inappropriate for use in the embodiment formulations. Forexample, organic solvents that decompose at 175° C., or decomposes at140° C., for a device operating at 200° C., may not be appropriate.Organic solvents that have poor solubility in the compositionconstituents may be inappropriate for use in certain embodiments of thecompositions herein. For example, cannabinoids with a composition oforganic solvents that will not produce a solution at a concentration of0.5%(w/w) cannabinoid or higher in propylene glycol (PG) or vegetableglycerin (VG) or any mixture of PG and VG at ambient conditions. As usedherein, weight percentage (w/w) refers to the weight of the individualcomponent over the weight of the total formulation.

As used in this specification and the claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise.

The term “organic solvent” as used herein, refers to an organic compoundwith solvent properties. A non-limiting example of common organicsolvents are the alkanes, which are hydrocarbons with no carbon—carbondouble or triple bonds.

The term “electronic cigarette” or “e-cigarette” or “aerosol inhalationdevice” or “low temperature vaporization device” as used herein, refersto an electronic inhaler that vaporizes a liquid solution into anaerosol mist, simulating the act of cannabis smoking. The liquidsolution comprises a formulation comprising cannabinoids. There are manyelectronic cigarettes which do not resemble conventional cigarettes atall. The amount of cannabinoid contained can be chosen by the user viathe inhalation. In general, an electronic cigarette contains threeessential components: a plastic cartridge that serves as a mouthpieceand a reservoir for liquid, an “atomizer” that vaporizes the liquid, anda battery. Other embodiment electronic cigarettes include a combinedatomizer and reservoir, called a “cartomizer” that may or may not bedisposable, a mouthpiece that may be integrated with the cartomizer ornot, and a battery.

As used in this specification and the claims, unless otherwise stated,the term “about” refers to variations of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%,25%, or 50% depending on the embodiment.

Suitable carriers (e.g., a liquid solvent) for the cannabinoidsdescribed herein include a medium in which a cannabinoid is soluble atambient conditions, such that the cannabinoid does not form a solidprecipitate. Examples include, but are not limited to, vegetableglycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, water,ethanol and the like, as well as combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the liquid carrier comprises 0% to 100% of propylene glycoland 100% to 0% of vegetable glycerin. In some embodiments, the liquidcarrier comprises 10% to 70% of propylene glycol and 90% to 30% ofvegetable glycerin. In some embodiments, the liquid carrier comprises20% to 50% of propylene glycol and 80% to 50% of vegetable glycerin. Insome embodiments, the liquid carrier comprises 30% propylene glycol and70% vegetable glycerin. In some embodiments, the liquid carriercomprises 50% propylene glycol and 50% vegetable glycerin.

The formulations described herein vary in concentration. In someformulations, a dilute concentration of the cannabinoids in the carrieris utilized. In some formulations, a less dilute concentration of thecannabinoids in the carrier is utilized. In some formulations theconcentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is about 1%(w/w) to about 75% (w/w). In some formulations the concentration ofcannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is about 1% (w/w) to about50% (w/w). In some formulations the concentration of cannabinoids in thecannabinoid formulation is about 1% (w/w) to about 35% (w/w). In someformulations the concentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoidformulation is about 1% (w/w) to about 25% (w/w). In some embodimentsthe concentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation isabout 1% (w/w) to about 15% (w/w). In some formulations theconcentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is about 4%(w/w) to about 12% (w/w). In some formulations the concentration ofcannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is about 4% (w/w). In someembodiments the concentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoidformulation is about 2% (w/w). In some formulations the concentration ofcannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is 1% (w/w) to 25% (w/w). Insome formulations the concentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoidformulation is 1% (w/w) to 20% (w/w). In some formulations theconcentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is 1% (w/w)to 18% (w/w). In some formulations the concentration of cannabinoids inthe cannabinoid formulation is 1% (w/w) to 15% (w/w). In someformulations the concentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoidformulation is 4% (w/w) to 12% (w/w). In some formulations theconcentration of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulation is 4%(w/w). In some formulations the concentration of cannabinoids in thecannabinoid formulation is 2% (w/w). In some formulations, a less diluteconcentration of one cannabinoid is used in conjunction with a moredilute concentration of a second cannabinoid. In some formulations, theconcentration of cannabinoids in the first cannabinoid formulation isabout 1% to about 50%, and is combined with a second cannabinoidformulation having a concentration of cannabinoid therein from about 1%to about 50% or any range or concentration therein. In someformulations, the concentration of cannabinoids in the first cannabinoidformulation is 1% to 25%, and is combined with a second cannabinoidformulation having a concentration of cannabinoids therein from 1% to25% or any range or concentration therein. As used with respect toconcentrations of cannabinoids in the cannabinoid formulations, the term“about” refers to ranges of 0.05% (i.e. if the concentration is about20%, the range is 19.95%-20.05%), 0.1 (i.e. if the concentration isabout 20%, the range is 19.90%-20.10%), 0.25 (i.e. if the concentrationis about 20%, the range is 19.75%-20.25%), 0.5 (i.e. if theconcentration is about 20%, the range is 19.5%-20.5%), or 1 (i.e. if theconcentration is bout 20%, the range is 19%-21%), depending on theembodiment.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid is in an amount that forms about0.5% to about 50% cannabinoid in the inhalable aerosol. In certainembodiments, the cannabinoid is in an amount that forms about 1% toabout 50% cannabinoid in the inhalable aerosol. In certain embodiments,the liquid formulation has a cannabinoid concentration of about 1% (w/w)to about 50% (w/w). In certain embodiments s, the liquid formulation hasa cannabinoid concentration of about 1% (w/w) to about 45% (w/w). Incertain embodiments, the liquid formulation has a cannabinoidconcentration of about 1% (w/w) to about 30% (w/w). In certainembodiments, the liquid formulation has a cannabinoid concentration ofabout 1% (w/w) to about 20% (w/w). In certain embodiments, the liquidformulation has a cannabinoid concentration of about 4% (w/w) to about15% (w/w). In certain embodiments, the liquid formulation has acannabinoid concentration of about 10% (w/w). In certain embodiments,the liquid formulation has a cannabinoid concentration of about 5%(w/w).

Cannabinoids are extracted by the introduction of a suitable organicsolvent. In some formulations provided herein, suitable organic solventsare alkanes. Examples of alkanes disclosed herein are methane, ethane,propane, butane, pentane, hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, decane, CO₂and the like. In some formulations provided herein, the organic solventsused herein is butane. Cannabinoids are formed from the introduction ofan organic solvent to cannabis. In some formulations provided herein,the stoichiometric ratios of the cannabis to organic solvent(cannabis:organic solvent) are 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 2:21, 2:23, 2:25,3:31, 3:32, 3:34, 3:35, 3:37, 3:38, 4:41, 4:42, 4:43, 4:45, 4:46, 4:47,4:49, 4:50, 5:51, 5:52, 5:53, 5:54, 5:56, 5:57, 5:58, 5:59, 5:61, 5:62,5:63, or 5:64. In some formulations provided herein, the stoichiometricratios of the cannabis to organic solvent are 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, or 1:5(cannabis:organic solvent).

Cannabinoids are a class of diverse chemical compounds that act oncannabinoid receptors in cells that represses neurotransmitter releasein the brain. Ligands for these receptor proteins include theendocannabinoids (produced naturally in the body by animals), thephytocannabinoids (found in cannabis and some other plants), andsynthetic cannabinoids (manufactured artificially). For non-limitingexample the most notable cannabinoid is the phytocannabinoidtetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound incannabis, and cannabidiol (CBD), another major constituent of the plant.There are at least 125 different cannabinoids isolated from cannabis,exhibiting varied effects. Synthetic cannabinoids encompass a variety ofdistinct chemical classes: the classical cannabinoids structurallyrelated to THC, the nonclassical cannabinoids (cannabimimetics)including the aminoalkylindoles, 1,5-diarylpyrazoles, quinolines, andarylsulfonamides, as well as eicosanoids related to endocannabinoids.

Cannabinoid formulations may be formed by introducing a suitable organicsolvent to cannabis, purging the organic solvent out of the neat mixtureat ambient temperature or at elevated temperature, and then diluting thecannabinoid extract with a carrier mixture, such as a mixture ofpropylene glycol and glycerin. In some embodiments, the suitable organicsolvent is completely purged from the cannabinoid extract prior todilution. The suitable organic solvent may not completely purge from thecannabinoid extract prior to dilution. The addition of the suitableorganic solvent to the cannabis to form a neat mixture may cause anendothermic reaction. The addition of the suitable organic solvent tothe cannabis to form a neat mixture may be conducted at 15° C. Theaddition of the suitable organic solvent to the cannabis to form a neatmixture may be conducted at 50° C. The neat mixture may be warmed/cooledto ambient temperature prior to dilution. The dilution may be carriedout at elevated temperature.

In certain embodiments, the formulation is non-corrosive to anelectronic cigarette. In certain embodiments, the organic solvent isstable at and below operating temperature or about 200° C. In certainembodiments s, the organic solvent does not decompose at and belowoperating temperature or about 200° C. In certain embodiments, theorganic solvent does not oxidize at and below operating temperature orabout 200° C. In certain embodiments, the formulation is non-corrosiveto the electronic cigarette. In certain embodiments, the formulation isnon-toxic to a user of the electronic cigarette.

Cannabinoid formulations may be prepared by combining cannabinoidextract and a suitable organic solvent in a carrier mixture, such as amixture of propylene glycol and glycerin. The mixture of cannabinoidextract and a first carrier mixture is combined with a mixture of asuitable organic solvent in a second carrier mixture. In someembodiments, the first and second carrier mixtures are identical incomposition. In some embodiments, the first and second carrier mixturesare not identical in composition. In some embodiments, heating ofcannabinoid/organic solvent/carrier mixture is required to facilitatecomplete dissolution.

In some embodiments, cannabinoid formulations may be prepared and addedto a solution of 3:7 ratio by weight of propylene glycol (PG)/vegetableglycerin (VG), and mixed thoroughly. While described herein as producing10 g of each of the formulations, all procedures noted infra arescalable. Other manners of formulation may also be employed form theformulations noted infra, without departing from the disclosure herein,and as would be known to one of skill in the art upon reading thedisclosure herein.

The optimal cannabinoid formulation may be determined by the vaporpressure of the constituent organic solvent. In some embodiments, thecannabinoid formulations comprise an organic solvent with a vaporpressure that is similar to the vapor pressure of other cannabinoidformulations. In some embodiments, the cannabinoid formulations areformed from an organic solvent with a vapor pressure that is similar tothe vapor pressure of other cannabinoid formulations at the heatingtemperature of the device. FIG. 3 illustrates this trend. Cannabinoidsformed from cannabis and propane; cannabis and butane; or cannabis andCO2 are concentrated extracts that produce a satisfaction in anindividual user consistent with efficient transfer of cannabinoid and arapid rise in cannabinoid plasma levels. This pattern may be due to themechanism of action during heating of the cannabinoid formulation. Thecannabinoid may disassociate at, or just below, the heating temperatureof the device, resulting in a mixture of cannabinoid and the individualorganic solvent. At that point, if both the cannabinoid and organicsolvent have similar vapor pressures, they may aerosolize at the sametime, giving rise to a transfer of both cannabinoid and the constituentorganic solvent to the user.

The cannabinoid liquid formulation for generating an inhalable aerosolupon heating in an electronic cigarette may comprise a cannabinoid in abiologically acceptable liquid carrier; wherein the organic solvent usedto form said cannabinoids are characterized by a vapor pressure between100 to 10000 bar at 25° C. In some embodiments, the organic solvent usedto form the cannabinoid is characterized by vapor pressure less than 25bar at 50° C. In some embodiments, the organic solvent used to form thecannabinoid is characterized by vapor pressure between 10-10000 bar at25° C.

Different cannabinoid formulations produced varying degrees ofsatisfaction in an individual. In some embodiments, the concentration ofthe cannabinoid affected satisfaction, such that increased concentrationwas more satisfying as compared to less concentration. The cannabinoidformed may be highly concentrated. The cannabinoid formed may be lessconcentrated. The cannabinoid may exist in more than one concentrationstate, e.g., an equilibrium of low and highly concentrated cannabinoids.The extent of concentration of the cannabinoid molecule may be dependentupon the stoichiometric ratio of cannabis:organic solvent used in thecannabinoid formation reaction. The extent of concentration of thecannabinoid molecule may be dependent upon the solvent. The extent ofconcentration of the cannabinoid molecule may be unknown. In someembodiments, highly concentrated cannabinoid formulations produced ahigh degree of satisfaction in the user. The reason for this trend maybe explained by a mechanism of action wherein the cannabinoid is firstseparated prior to transfer to the vapor with the constituent acceptableliquid carrier and then retained and stabilized after by the organicsolvent going down stream to the lungs of the user. It may be possibleto modify the acceptable liquid carrier, thus resulting in bettertransfer efficiency. In addition, the lack of satisfaction of somecannabinoids indicates that a second factor may be important. Acannabinoid may be best performing when it is at its optimal extentvaporization, depending on the formulation. For example, cannabinoidswith a cannabinoid ratio of 1:2 (cannabinoid: acceptable liquidcarrier), may deliver less satisfaction to the user than the onecontaining same amount of cannabinoids but only half amount ofacceptable liquid carrier, i.e. cannabinoid:acceptable liquid carrier(1:1). This may be explained as 1 mole of cannabinoids produces aformulation with 2 moles of acceptable liquid carrier. When there is notenough cannabinoid to associate with all the acceptable liquid carriermolecules, the cannabinoids left in the formulation may reduce thesatisfaction, pain relief, and therapeutic benefits the formulationprovides.

The flavor of the constituent organic solvent used in the extractformation may be a consideration in choosing the organic solvent. Asuitable organic solvent may have minimal or no toxicity to humans inthe concentrations used. A suitable organic solvent may be compatiblewith the electronic cigarette components it contacts or could contact atthe concentrations used. That is, such organic solvent does not degradeor otherwise react with the electronic cigarette components it contactsor could contact. The odor of the constituent organic solvent used inthe extract formation may be a consideration in choosing a suitableorganic solvent. The concentration of the cannabinoid in the carrier mayaffect the satisfaction in the individual user. In some embodiments, theflavor of the formulation is adjusted by changing the organic solvent.In some embodiments, the flavor of the formulation is adjusted by addingexogenous flavorants. In some embodiments, an unpleasant tasting orsmelling organic solvent is used in minimal quantities to mitigate suchcharacteristics. In some embodiments, exogenous pleasant smelling ortasting organic solvent is added to the formulation.

Cannabinoid formulations may generate an inhalable aerosol upon heatingin an electronic cigarette. The amount of cannabinoid or cannabinoidaerosol inhaled may be user-determined. The user may, for example,modify the amount of cannabinoid or cannabinoids inhaled by adjustinginhalation strength.

Formulations are described herein comprising two or more cannabinoids.In some embodiments, wherein a formulation comprises two or morecannabinoids, each individual cannabinoid is formed as described herein.

Cannabinoid formulations, as used herein, refer to a single or mixtureof cannabinoids with other suitable chemical components used fore-cigarette, such as carriers, stabilizers, diluents, dispersing agents,suspending agents, thickening agents, and/or excipients. In certainembodiments, the cannabinoid formulation is stirred at ambientconditions for 20 minutes. In certain embodiments, the cannabinoidformulation is heated and stirred at 55 C. for 20 minutes. In certainembodiments, the cannabinoid formulation is heated and stirred at 90 C.for 60 minutes. In certain embodiments, the formulation facilitatesadministration of cannabinoid to an organism (e.g., lung).

The cannabinoids of cannabinoid formulations provided herein are eithernaturally occurring cannabinoids (e.g., from extract of cannabinoidcontaining species such as cannabis), or synthetic cannabinoids. In someembodiments, the cannabinoid is employed in relatively pure form (e.g.,greater than about 80% pure, 85% pure, 90% pure, 95% pure, or 99% pure).In some embodiments, the cannabinoid for cannabinoid formulationprovided herein is “water clear” in appearance in order to avoid orminimize the formation of tarry residues during the subsequent extractformation steps.

Cannabinoid formulations used for e-cigarettes described herein, in someembodiments, have a cannabinoid concentration of about 0.5% (w/w) toabout 80% (w/w), wherein the concentration is of cannabinoid weight tototal solution weight, i.e. (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 80% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 50% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 35% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about4% (w/w) to about 25% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 35% (w/w), about 3% (w/w) to about 25% (w/w), or about4% (w/w) to about 15% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 10% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 5% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 4% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 3% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 2% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 1% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 10% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 5% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 4% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 3% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about1% (w/w) to about 2% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about2% (w/w) to about 10% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about2% (w/w) to about 5% (w/w). In certain embodiments, cannabinoidformulations provided herein have a cannabinoid concentration of about2% (w/w) to about 4% (w/w). Certain embodiments provide a cannabinoidformulation having a cannabinoid concentration of about 0.5%, 0.6%,0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%,1.9%, 2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%,3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.5%, 5.0%,5.5%, 6.0%, 6.5%, 7.0%, 7.5%, 8.0%, 8.5%, 9.0%, 9.5%, 10%, 11%, 12%,13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%,60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% (w/w), or more, including any increments therein.Certain embodiments provide a cannabinoid formulation having acannabinoid concentration of about 50% (w/w). Certain embodimentsprovide a cannabinoid formulation having a cannabinoid concentration ofabout 40% (w/w). Certain embodiments provide a cannabinoid formulationhaving a cannabinoid concentration of about 30% (w/w). Certainembodiments provide a cannabinoid formulation having a cannabinoidconcentration of about 20% (w/w). Certain embodiments provide acannabinoid formulation having a cannabinoid concentration of about 10%(w/w). Certain embodiments provide a cannabinoid formulation having acannabinoid concentration of about 5% (w/w).

The formulation further may comprise one or more flavorants.

The suitable organic solvent for the cannabinoid formulation may have avapor pressure <25 bar at 50° C. and is non-corrosive to the electroniccigarette or is non-toxic to humans. In some embodiments, the suitableorganic solvent for cannabinoid formation is selected from theaforementioned group.

The suitable organic solvent for the cannabinoid formulation may have avapor pressure of about 100 to 10000 bar at 25° C. and is non-corrosiveto the electronic cigarette or is non-toxic to humans. In someembodiments, the suitable organic solvent for cannabinoid formation isselected from the aforementioned group.

The suitable organic solvent for the cannabinoid formulation may have amelting point <55° C., a boiling point>−165 ° C., at least a 15-degreedifference between the melting point and the boiling point, and isnon-corrosive to the electronic cigarette or is non-toxic to humans. Insome embodiments, the suitable organic solvent for cannabinoid formationhas a melting point at least 20 degrees lower than the operatingtemperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point no more than300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette, at least a 15-degree difference between the melting point andthe boiling point, and is non-corrosive to the electronic cigarette oris non-toxic to humans; wherein the operating temperature is 200° C. Insome embodiments, the suitable organic solvent for cannabinoid formationis selected from the aforementioned group.

The suitable organic solvent for the cannabinoid formulation does notdecompose at the operating temperature of the electronic cigarette. Insome embodiments, the suitable organic solvent for cannabinoid formationdoes not oxidize at the operating temperature of the electroniccigarette. In some embodiments, the suitable organic solvent forcannabinoid formation does not oxidize at room temperature. In someembodiments, the suitable organic solvent for cannabinoid formation doesnot provide an unpleasant taste. In some embodiments, the suitableorganic solvent for cannabinoid formation has good solubility in aliquid formulation for use in an electronic cigarette.

Provided herein is an electronic cigarette 2 having a fluid storagecompartment 4 comprising an embodiment cannabinoid formulation of anyembodiment described herein within the fluid storage compartmentdescribed herein. An embodiment is shown in FIG. 7. The electroniccigarette 2 of FIG. 7 includes a mouth end 6, and a charging end 8. Themouth-end 6 includes a mouthpiece 10. The charging end 8 may connect toa battery or a charger or both, wherein the battery is within a body ofthe electronic cigarette, and the charger is separate from the batteryand couples to the body or the battery to charge the battery. In someembodiments the electronic cigarette comprises a rechargeable batterywithin a body 14 of the electronic cigarette and the charge end 8comprises a connection 12 for charging the rechargeable battery. In someembodiments, the electronic cigarette comprises a cartomizer thatcomprises the fluid storage compartment and an atomizer. In someembodiments, the atomizer comprises a heater. In some embodiments thefluid storage compartment 4 is separable from an atomizer. In someembodiments the fluid storage compartment 4 is replaceable as part of areplaceable cartridge. In some embodiments the fluid storage compartment4 is refillable. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 10 is replaceable.

Provided herein is a cartomizer 18 for an electronic cigarette 2 havinga fluid storage compartment 4 comprising an embodiment cannabinoidformulation of any embodiment described herein within the fluid storagecompartment described herein. The cartomizer 18 embodiment of FIG. 8includes a mouth end 6, and a connection end 16. The connection end 16in the embodiment of FIG. 8 couples the cartomizer 14 to a body of anelectronic cigarette, or to a battery of the electronic cigarette, orboth. The mouth end 6 includes a mouthpiece 10. In some embodiments, thecartomizer does not include a mouthpiece, and in such embodiments, thecartomizer can be coupled to a mouthpiece of an electronic cigarette, orthe cartomizer can be coupled to a battery or body of an electroniccigarette, while the mouthpiece is also coupled to the battery or thebody of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece isintegral with the body of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments,including the embodiment of FIG. 8, the cartomizer 18 comprises thefluid storage compartment 4 and an atomizer (not shown). In someembodiments, the atomizer comprises a heater (not shown).

EXAMPLES

The Examples that follow are illustrative of specific embodimentsdisclosed herein and various uses thereof. They are set forth forexplanatory purposes only and are not to be taken as limiting.

Example 1 Preparation of Cannabinoid Formulations

Various cannabinoid formulations were prepared and added to a liquidcarrier solution of 8:2 ratio by weight of propylene glycol(PG)/vegetable glycerin (VG), and mixed thoroughly. The examples shownbelow were used to make 10 g of each of the formulations. All proceduresare scalable.

For example, in order to make cannabinoid formulations with a finalcannabinoid equivalent concentration of 30% (w/w), the followingprocedures were applied to each individual formulation.

-   -   Cannabinoid formulation: 8 ml liquid carrier was added to a        beaker followed by adding 4 g cannabinoid extract to the same        beaker. The mixture was stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until        the cannabinoid extract was completely dissolved and an orange        oily mixture was formed. The mixture was cooled down to ambient        conditions, and the mixture was stirred until a visually        homogenous formulation solution was achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation can also be made by adding 4 mL liquid        carrier to a beaker followed by adding 4 g cannabinoid extract        and 4 mL PGN G (8:2) solution to the same beaker. The mixture        was then stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until a visually        homogenous formulation solution was achieved with no undissolved        cannabinoid extract. Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding        8 mL liquid carrier to a beaker followed by adding 4 g        cannabinoid extract and 8 mL PGN G (8:2) solution to the same        beaker. The mixture was then stirred at 90° C. for 60 minutes        until a visually homogenous formulation solution was achieved        with no undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 4 mL liquid carrier        to a beaker followed by adding 4 g cannabinoid extract and 4 mL        PGN G (8:2) solution to the same beaker. The mixture was then        stirred at 90° C. for 60 minutes until a visually homogenous        formulation solution was achieved with no undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation can also be made by adding 4 mL liquid        carrier to a beaker followed by adding 4 g cannabinoid extract        to the same beaker. The mixture was stirred at 90° C. for 60        minutes until completely dissolved and an orange oily mixture        was formed. The mixture was either cooled to ambient conditions        or kept at 90° C. when 4 mL PGN G (8:2) solution was added. The        mixture was then stirred at 90° C. until a visually homogenous        formulation solution was achieved with no undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 4 g cannabinoid to a        beaker followed by adding 8 mL PGN G (8:2) solution to the same        beaker. The mixture was then stirred at ambient conditions for        10 minutes until a visually homogenous formulation solution was        achieved.

For example, in order to make cannabinoid formulations with a finalcannabinoid equivalent concentration of 45% (w/w), the followingprocedures were applied to each individual formulation.

-   -   Cannabinoid formulation: 6 mL liquid carrier was added to a        beaker followed by adding 6 g cannabinoid extract to the same        beaker. The mixture was stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until        completely dissolved and an orange oily mixture was formed. The        mixture was cooled down to ambient conditions. and the blend was        stirred until a visually homogenous formulation solution was        achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation can also be made by adding 4 mL liquid        carrier to a beaker followed by adding 6 g cannabinoid extract        and 2 mL PGN G (8:2) solution to the same beaker. The mixture        was then stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until a visually        homogenous formulation solution was achieved with no undissolved        chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 6 mL PG to a beaker        followed by adding 6 g cannabinoid extract to the same beaker.        The mixture was then stirred at 90° C. for 60 minutes until a        visually homogenous formulation solution was achieved with no        undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 4 mL liquid carrier        to a beaker followed by adding 6 g cannabinoid extract and 2 mL        PGN G (8:2) solution to the same beaker. The mixture was then        stirred at 90° C. for 60 minutes until a visually homogenous        formulation solution was achieved with no undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding melted 6 g        cannabinoid extract to a beaker followed by adding 4 mL liquid        carrier to the same beaker. The mixture was stirred at ambient        conditions for 10 minutes, and an oily product was produced. The        mixture was allowed to cool down to ambient temperature and 2 mL        PGN G (8:2) solution was added to the same beaker. The mixture        was then stirred at ambient conditions for 20 minutes until a        visually homogenous formulation solution was achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 6 mL liquid carrier        to a beaker followed by adding 6 g cannabinoid extract to the        same beaker. The mixture was stirred at ambient conditions for        10 minutes, and oily product was produced. The mixture was        allowed to remain at ambient temperature then the mixture was        then stirred at ambient conditions for 20 minutes until a        visually homogenous formulation solution was achieved.

For example, in order to make cannabinoid formulations with a finalcannabinoid equivalent concentration of 15% (w/w), the followingprocedures were applied to each individual formulation.

-   -   Cannabinoid formulation: 4 mL liquid carrier was added to a        beaker followed by adding 2 g cannabinoid extract to the same        beaker. The mixture was stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until        completely dissolved and an orange oily mixture was formed. The        mixture was cooled down to ambient conditions. 6 mL PGN G (8:2)        solution was added to the orange cannabinoid mixture and the        blend was stirred until a visually homogenous formulation        solution was achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation can also be made by adding 10 mL carrier        liquid to a beaker followed by adding 2 g cannabinoid extract to        the same beaker. The mixture was then stirred at 55° C. for 20        minutes until a visually homogenous formulation solution was        achieved with no undissolved chemicals. For example, in order to        make cannabinoid formulations with a final cannabinoid        equivalent concentration of 3.75% (w/w), the following        procedures were applied to each individual formulation.    -   Cannabinoid formulation: 1.5 mL liquid carrier was added to a        beaker followed by adding 0.5 g cannabinoid extract to the same        beaker. The mixture was stirred at 55° C. for 20 minutes until        completely dissolved and an orange oily mixture was formed. The        mixture was cooled down to ambient conditions. 10 mL PGN G (8:2)        solution was added to the orange cannabinoid mixture and the        blend was stirred until a visually homogenous formulation        solution was achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation can also be made by adding 11.5 mL        liquid carrier to a beaker followed by adding 0.5 g cannabinoid        extract to the same beaker. The mixture was then stirred at        55° C. for 20 minutes until a visually homogenous formulation        solution was achieved with no undissolved chemicals.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 11.5 mL liquid        carrier to a beaker followed by adding 0.5 g cannabinoid extract        to the same beaker. The mixture was then stirred at 90° C. for        60 minutes until a visually homogenous formulation solution was        achieved with no undissolved cannabinoid extract.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding melted 0.5 g        cannabinoid extract to a beaker followed by adding 11.5 mL        liquid carrier to the same beaker. The mixture was stirred at        ambient conditions for 10 minutes, and an oily product was        produced. The mixture was allowed to remain at ambient        temperature and the mixture was then stirred at ambient        conditions for 20 minutes until a visually homogenous        formulation solution was achieved.    -   Cannabinoid formulation was made by adding 1.5 mL liquid carrier        to a beaker followed by adding 0.5 g cannabinoid extract to the        same beaker. The mixture was stirred at ambient conditions for        10 minutes, and an oily product was produced. The mixture was        allowed to cool down to ambient temperature and 10 mL PGN G        (8:2) solution was added to the same beaker. The mixture was        then stirred at ambient conditions for 20 minutes until a        visually homogenous formulation solution was achieved.

Various formulations comprising different cannabinoids can be preparedsimilarly, or different concentrations of the above-noted cannabinoidformulations or other cannabinoid formulations or other liquid carrierratios of PG:VG can be prepared as one of skill in the art would know todo upon reading the disclosure herein.

Various formulations comprising two or more cannabinoids can be preparedsimilarly in a solution of 8:2 ratio of propylene glycol (PG)/vegetableglycerin (VG). For example, 1 g (90% w/w cannabinoid) of cannabinoid CBDand 1 g (90% w/w cannabinoid) of cannabinoid THC are added to 10 mL ofPGN G solution, to achieve a 15% w/w cannabinoid formulation.

Also provided is another exemplary formulation. For example, 0.67 g (90%w/w cannabinoid) of cannabinoid CBD, 0.67 g (90% w/w cannabinoid) ofcannabinoid THC and 0.67 g (90% w/w cannabinoid) of cannabinoid CBN areadded to 9 mL of PGN G solution, to achieve a 15% w/w cannabinoidformulation.

Example 2 Heart Rate Study of Cannabinoid Solutions

Exemplary formulations of cannabinoids, and a control of placebo wereprepared and administered in similar fashion to an electronic cigaretteto the human subjects. The formulations were designated as low dose(1.8%) cannabinoid, and high-dose (3.9%) cannabinoid.

Baseline heart rate measurements were conducted immediately prior to theconsumption of cannabinoids. Measurements were continuously taken atpredetermined intervals up to 200 minutes. Final results were presentedin FIG. 1.

FIG. 1 summarizes results from heart rate measurements taken forcannabinoid formulations. For ease of reference in reviewing FIG. 1, atthe 60-minute time-point, from top to bottom (highest heart rate tolowest heart rate), the cannabinoid formulations are as follows:high-dose cannabinoid, low-dose cannabinoid, and placebo. The testformulations comprising a cannabinoid cause a faster and moresignificant rise in heart rate than the placebo. The test formulationscomprising a high dose cannabinoid also cause faster and moresignificant rise when compared with a low dose cannabinoid formulationwith the same amount of cannabinoid by weight. In turn, the cannabinoids(e.g., CBD, or THC) prepared from the organic solvents having calculatedvapor pressures between 100 to 10 000 bar at 25° C., or <25 bar @ 50° C.cause a faster rise in heart rate than placebo. The cannabinoidsprepared from the organic solvents also cause a more significant heartrate increase than placebo. Thus, other suitable cannabinoids formed bythe organic solvents with the similar vapor pressure and/or similarboiling point may be used in accordance with the practice of the presentinvention.

Example 3 Satisfaction Study of Cannabinoid Solution via E-Cigarette

In addition to the heart rate study shown in Example 2, cannabinoidformulations were used to conduct a satisfaction study in 10 testparticipants. The test participant, an e-cigarette and/or traditionalcigarette user, was required to have no cannabinoid intake for at least24 hours before the test. The participants took 3 puffs using ane-cigarette or electronic vaporization device over 5 minutes in eachcase, and then was asked to rate the level of physical and emotionalsatisfaction he or she felt on a scale of 0-5, with 0 being no physicalor emotional satisfaction. The results indicated that all cannabinoidformulations performed well and/or better than a traditional cannabiscigarette.

Based on the Satisfaction Study, the cannabinoids formulations formedwith organic solvents having vapor pressure ranges between 100 to 10 000bar @ 25° C., or <25 bar @ 50° C. provide more satisfaction than oral ora traditional cannabis cigarette.

Example 4 Test Formulation 1 (TF1):

A solution of cannabinoids in propylene glycol comprising: 1 g (90% w/w)of cannabinoid extract and 2 mL of propylene glycol−Total volume 3 mL.

Cannabinoid extract was added to the propylene glycol, and mixedthoroughly. In a 1:2 molar ratio the percentage of cannabinoids in thecannabinoid formulation by weight is given by: (1 g/3 mL)90=30% (w/w).

Example 5 Test Formulation 2 (TF2):

A solution of cannabinoid in propylene glycol comprising 1 g (90% w/w)of cannabinoid extract was dissolved in 1 mL of propylene glycol andmixed thoroughly.

Example 6 Heart Rate Study of Cannabinoid Solutions via E-Cigarette:

Representative formulations (TF1 and TF2) were administered in similarfashion to an electronic cigarette to human subjects. The operatingtemperature of the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about 325° C., orfrom about 100° C. to about 300° C.

The atomizer coils in both cases had a resistance of either: 0.9 ohms,and the electronic vaporization device was set to 5V, resulting in 27.8W of power; or 0.2 ohms, and the electronic vaporization device was setto the “variable wattage” setting thus allowing the atomizer coils nomaintain a consistent temperature (250° C.) throughout vaporization(P=V̂2/R)

Heart rate was measured in a 30-second interval for 200 minutes fromstart of puffing. Test participants took puffs ad libitum over 5 minutesin each case (solid line (highest peak): cannabis cigarette, dark dottedline (3rd highest peak): test formulation 1 (TF1—low-dose cannabinoidformulation), light dashed line (2nd highest peak): test formulation 2(TF2—high-dose cannabinoid formulation). Comparison between cannabiscigarette, TF1, and TF2 is shown in FIG. 2.

It is clearly shown in FIG. 2 that the test formulation with high-dosecannabinoid (TF2) causes a faster rise in heart rate than low-dosecannabinoid (TF1). Also, TF2 more closely resembles the rate of increasefor a cannabis cigarette. Thus, other suitable cannabinoids that causethe similar effect may be used in accordance with the practice of thepresent invention. This experience of increased heart rate comparable tothat of a traditional burned cannabis cigarette has not beendemonstrated or identified in other electronic cigarette devices, norhas it been demonstrated or identified in low temperature cannabisvaporization devices that do not burn the cannabis.

In addition, the data appears to correlate well with the previousfindings shown in FIG. 2.

As previously noted in the Satisfaction Study, the cannabinoidformulations with organic solvents having vapor pressures between 100 to10 000 bar @ 25° C. and/or <25 bar @ 50° C. provide more satisfactionthan the rest, as noted in FIG. 3. Based on the findings herein, it wasanticipated that these cannabinoid formulations having either:

-   -   a Vapor Pressure between 100-10 000 bar @ 25° C.,    -   a Vapor Pressure >25 bar @ 50° C.,    -   a difference between boiling point and melting point of at least        15° C., and a boiling point greater than −165° C., and a melting        point less than 55° C.,    -   a difference between boiling point and melting point of at least        15° C., and a boiling point greater than −165° C., and a melting        point less than 55° C.,    -   a difference between boiling point and melting point of at least        15° C., and a boiling point at most 300° C. less than operating        temperature, and a melting point at least 20° C. lower than        operating temperature, or    -   a combination thereof produce one or more of the following        effects:

T_(max)—Time to maximum blood concentration: Based on the resultsestablished herein, a user of an e-cigarette comprising the cannabinoidformulation will experience a comparable rate of physical and emotionalsatisfaction from using a formulation comprising a mixture ofcannabinoids prepared with an appropriate organic solvent at least 1.2×to 3× faster than baseline. As illustrated in FIG. 1: cannabinoids froma low-dose cannabinoid formulation appears to generate a heartbeat thatis nearly 1.2 times that of a normal heart rate for an individualapproximately 10 minutes after the commencement of puffing; whereas thecannabinoid from a high-dose cannabinoid formulation appears to generatea heartbeat that is nearly 1.3 times that of a normal heart rate for anindividual approximately 10 minutes after the commencement of puffing.

Again this would not be inconsistent with the data from FIG. 2, wherethe data illustrated that at approximately 10 minutes, the heart rate oftest participants reached a maximum of 84-87 bpm with either atraditional cannabis cigarette or a cannabinoid formulation (TF2);whereas those same participants heart rates only reached a maximum ofapproximately 78 bpm at approximately 10 minutes with a cannabinoidformulation (TF1); also a difference in effect of 1.2 times greater withadministration of cannabinoid formulations (and traditional cannabiscigarettes) versus placebo (normal heart rate).

Further, when considering peak satisfaction levels (achieved atapproximately 10 minutes from the initiation of puffing (time=0) andlooking at the slope of the line for plasma concentrations, theapproximate slope of those cannabinoid formulations that exceeded oralcannabinoid formulations range between 3.1307 hrn/sec and 2.3442hrn/sec. By comparison, the average slope of the line for the oralcannabinoid formulations is about 0.418. This would suggest that theconcentration of available cannabinoid will be delivered to the user ata rate that is between 5.6 and 7.5 times faster than an oralformulation.

In another measure of performance; C_(max)—Maximum blood cannabinoidconcentration; it is anticipated that similar rates of increase will bemeasured in blood cannabinoid concentration, as those illustrated above.That is, it was anticipated based on the findings herein, and unexpectedbased on the art known to date, that there would be comparable C_(max)between the common cannabis cigarette and certain cannabinoidformulations, but with a lower C_(max) in a cannabinoid solution.

Similarly, anticipated based on the findings herein, certain cannabinoidformulations would have higher rate of cannabinoid uptake levels in theblood at early time periods. Indeed, Example 8 presents data formultiple cannabinoid formulations consistent with these predictionswhich were made based on the findings and tests noted herein.

Example 7 Heart Rate Study of Cannabinoid Solutions via E-Cigarette

Exemplary formulations of cannabinoids and a control of propylene glycolare prepared as noted in Example 1 and are administered in the samefashion by an electronic cigarette to the same human subject. About 3 mLof each solution is loaded into an electronic vaporization device'satomizer to be used in the study. The atomizer is then attached to anelectronic vaporization device (same manufacturer). The operatingtemperature of the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about 325° C., orfrom about 100° C. to about 300° C.

Heart rate measurements are taken for 200 minutes; from 10 minutesbefore start of puffing, for 10 minutes during puffing, and continuinguntil 190 minutes after end of puffing. The test participant takes puffsad libitum over 5 minutes in each case. The base heart rate is theaverage heart rate over the first 10 minutes before start of puffing.Heart rate after puffing started is averaged over 1 minute intervals.

Example 8 Blood Plasma Testing

Blood plasma testing was conducted on eleven subjects (n=11). Seven testarticles were used in this study: one reference cannabis cigarette andsix blends either administered orally, or used in a electronicvaporizing device having an operating temperature of the e-cigarettefrom about 75° C. to about 325° C., or from about 100° C. to about 300°C. The reference cannabis cigarette was obtained from the U.S. NationalInstitute on Drug Abuse NIDA). The blends were formulations prepared asdescribed in Example 1.

The concentration of cannabinoid in each of the formulations wasconfirmed using spectroscopic analysis including UV absorbance,infrared-spectral analysis, (GC-) mass spectrometry, andspectrophotometric analysis. Cannabinoids that were available ascalibrated certified standards were diluted to a concentration of 0.01mg/mL in ethanol to determine analyze molar extinction coefficients inthe range of 200 to 400 nm. The control/bank measurement was obtainedwith ethanol. UV-spectra were recorded using a Varian Cary 1 BioUV-Visible spectrophotometer controlled by Cary ⅓E system software,version 3.02. A sample cell of 10mm was used for all measurements.Cannabinoid concentrations reported for all formulations were within therange of 95%-105% of the claimed concentrations

All subjects were able to consume about 40 mg of cannabinoid in eachtested blend.

Blood and plasma cannabinoid concentration results:

-   -   Low-dose formulation: T_(max)=0.17 h (0.15-0.25), C_(max)=48.6        μg/L (2.3-102)    -   High-dose formulation: T_(max)=0.17 h (0.12-0.37), C_(max)=97.8        μg/L (24.5-339)

Estimated C_(max) of 30% cannabinoid blends:

-   -   C_(max)=Mass consumed*Strength*Bioavailability I (Vol of        Distribution*Body Weight)=40 mg*30%*30% I (3.4 L/kg*75 kg)=14.12        ng/mL

Estimated C_(max) of 45% cannabinoid blends:

-   -   C_(max)=Mass consumed*Strength*Bioavailability I (Vol of        Distribution*Body Weight)=40 mg*45%*30% I (3.4 L/kg*75 kg)=21.18        ng/mL

Pharmacokinetic profiles of the blood plasma testing are shown in FIG.4; showing blood cannabinoid concentrations (μg/L) over time after oraladministration, the first puff (inhalation) of the vaporized aerosol, orthe smoke of the cannabis cigarette. Puffs were taken ad libitumstarting at time=0 and continuing for 10 minutes. For ease of referenceand review of FIG. 4, at the 25-minute time-point, the curves on thegraph show from top to bottom (highest average blood cannabinoidconcentration to lowest average blood cannabinoid concentration) arecannabis cigarette, high-dose cannabinoid, low-dose cannabinoid, 120 mgoral, 60 mg oral, 30 mg oral, and placebo. Although noted as highest tolowest at this time point, this is not to say that there is astatistically significant difference between any of the cannabinoidformulations, or between any of the cannabinoid formulations and thecannabis cigarette. However, it is possible there may be a statisticallysignificant difference between the C_(max) of particular cannabinoidformulations, and it is also likely based on the data shown in FIG. 4and in other studies herein that the oral cannabinoid formulation isstatistically different from cannabinoid formulations and/or thecannabis cigarette with respect to C_(max), since it appears lower thanothers tested at several time points. One of skill in the art, uponreview of the disclosure herein could properly power a test to determineactual statistically based differences between one or more formulationsand the cigarette, or between the formulations themselves in ane-cigarette.

Comparison of T_(max) and C_(max) of the five blends and referencecannabis cigarette are shown in FIG. 5. Comparison of C_(max) and AreaUnder the Curve (AUC) of the five blends and reference cigarette areshown in FIG. 6. The data in FIGS. 4-6 show corrected blood cannabinoidconcentration values (i.e. apparent blood cannabinoid concentration ateach time point minus baseline cannabinoid concentration of the samesample).

Although the T_(max) and C_(max) values are comparable between thetested blends and the reference cannabis cigarette, the rates ofcannabinoid absorption within the first 90 seconds differed among thetest articles. Some blends showed markedly higher rates of absorptionwithin the first 90 seconds compared to the other blends and with thereference cannabis cigarette. These blends contain cannabinoids thatperformed well in the Satisfaction Study of Example 3. Moreover,different concentrations of cannabinoid formulations had comparablerates of absorption, suggesting that a lower concentration ofcannabinoid may not adversely impact the rate of absorption.

Example 9 Blood Plasma Testing

Blood plasma testing is conducted on twenty subjects (n=20). Five testarticles are used in this study: one reference cigarette and threeblends delivered to a user in an e-cigarette as an aerosol. Theoperating temperature of the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about325° C., or from about 100° C. to about 300° C. The reference is atraditional cannabis cigarette. Three blends are tested: 15%, 30%, and45% concentrations. The three blends are liquid formulations preparedaccording to protocols similar to that described infra and in Example 1.

All subjects consume about 40 mg of the liquid formulation of eachtested blend. Puffs are taken ad libitum starting at time=0 andcontinuing for 10 minutes. Blood plasma testing occurs for at least 120minutes from the first puff (t=0) Pharmacokinetic data (e.g., C_(max),T_(max), AUC) for cannabinoids in the plasma of users are obtained atvarious time periods during those 120 minutes, along with rates ofcannabinoid absorption within the first 90 seconds for each testarticle.

Example 10 Blood Plasma Testing

Blood plasma testing is conducted on twenty subjects (n=20). Severaltest articles are used in this study: one reference cannabis cigaretteand several blends delivered to a user in an e-cigarette as an aerosol.The reference is a traditional cannabis cigarette. The operatingtemperature of the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about 325° C., orfrom about 100° C. to about 300° C. Various blends and concentrationsare tested: 15%, 30%, 45%, etc. The blends are liquid formulationsprepared according to protocols similar to that described infra and inExample 1.

All subjects consume about 40 mg of the liquid formulation of eachtested blend. Puffs are taken ad libitum starting at time=0 andcontinuing for. 10 minutes. Blood plasma testing occurs for at least 120minutes from the first puff (t=0). Pharmacokinetic data (e.g., C_(max),T_(max), AUC) for cannabinoids in the plasma of users are obtained atvarious time periods during those 120 minutes, along with rates ofcannabinoid absorption within the first 90 seconds for each testarticle.

Example 11 Blood Plasma Testing

Blood plasma testing is conducted on twenty subjects (n=20). Severaltest articles are used in this study: one reference cannabis cigaretteand several blends delivered to a user in an e-cigarette as an aerosol.The reference is a traditional cannabis cigarette. The operatingtemperature of the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about 325° C., orfrom about 100° C. to about 300° C. Various blends and concentrationsare tested:15%, 30%, 45%, etc. The blends are liquid formulationsprepared according to protocols similar to that described infra and inExample 1.

All subjects consume about 40 mg of the liquid formulation of eachtested blend. Puffs are taken ad libitum starting at time=0 andcontinuing for. 10 minutes. Blood plasma testing occurs for at least 120minutes from the first puff (t=0).

Pharmacokinetic data (e.g., C_(max), T_(max), AUC) for cannabinoids inthe plasma of users are obtained at various time periods during those120 minutes, along with rates of cannabinoid absorption within the first90 seconds for each test article.

Example 12 Blood Plasma Testing

Blood plasma testing is conducted on twenty subjects (n=20). Severaltest articles are used in this study: one reference cigarette andseveral blends delivered to a user in an e-cigarette as an aerosol. Thereference is a traditional cannabis cigarette. The operating temperatureof the e-cigarette is from about 75° C. to about 325° C., or from about100° C. to about 300° C. Various blends are tested: 15%, 30%, 45%, etc.The blends are liquid formulations prepared according to protocolssimilar to that described infra and in Example 1.

All subjects consume about 40 mg of the liquid formulation of eachtested blend. Puffs are taken ad libitum starting at time=0 andcontinuing for 10 minutes. Blood plasma testing occurs for at least 120minutes from the first puff (t=0). Pharmacokinetic data (e.g., C_(max),T_(max), AUC) for cannabinoids in the plasma of users are obtained atvarious time periods during those 120 minutes, along with rates ofcannabinoid absorption within the first 90 seconds for each testarticle.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shownand described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the artthat such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein can be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following embodiments define the scope of the invention and thatmethods and structures within the scope of these embodiments and theirequivalents be covered thereby.

1-80. (canceled)
 81. A cannabinoid formulation comprising: (a) one ormore cannabinoids; (b) an optional solvent; and (c) a biologicallyacceptable liquid carrier comprising glycerol, vegetable glycerin,propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, water, or ethanol.
 82. Theformulation of claim 81, wherein the one or more cannabinoids areextracted cannabinoids.
 83. The formulation of claim 81, wherein the oneor more cannabinoids are synthetic cannabinoids.
 84. The formulation ofclaim 81, wherein the liquid carrier comprises propylene glycol andvegetable glycerin.
 85. The formulation of claim 84, wherein the liquidcarrier comprises between 50% and 80% (w/w) propylene glycol, andbetween 20% and 50% (w/w) vegetable glycerin.
 86. The formulation ofclaim 85, wherein the liquid carrier comprises: 70% propylene glycol and30% (w/w) vegetable glycerin, or 80% propylene glycol and 20% (w/w)vegetable glycerin.
 87. The formulation of claim 81, wherein the solventis characterized by a vapor pressure less than 25 bar at 50° C.
 88. Theformulation of claim 81, wherein the solvent is characterized by vaporpressure of 10 to 10,000 bar at 25° C.
 89. The formulation of claim 81,wherein the solvent is CO₂, methane, ethane, propane, butane, pentane,hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, decane, undecane, dodecane, tridecane,tetradecane, pentadecane, hexadecane, heptadecane, octadecane,nonadecane, or eicosane.
 90. The formulation of claim 81, wherein thesolvent is propane, butane, or pentane.
 91. The formulation of claim 81,wherein the liquid formulation has a cannabinoid concentration of about0.5% (w/w) to about 50% (w/w).
 92. The formulation of claim 81, furthercomprising one or more flavorants.
 93. The formulation of claim 81,wherein the one or more cannabinoids are synthetic, and wherein the oneor more synthetic cannabinoids have a purity of greater than about 80%pure, greater than about 85% pure, greater than about 90% pure, greaterthan about 95% pure, or greater than about 99% pure.
 94. An electroniccigarette for delivering inhalable aerosol comprising: a fluid storagecompartment, the formulation of claim 81 disposed within the fluidstorage compartment, a heater, a battery, and a mouthpiece.
 95. Theelectronic cigarette of claim 94, wherein the liquid formulationcomprises a solvent with a melting point at least 20 degrees lower thanan operating temperature of the electronic cigarette, a boiling point nomore than 300 degrees lower than the operating temperature of theelectronic cigarette, and at least a 15-degree difference between themelting point and the boiling point.
 96. The electronic cigarette ofclaim 94, wherein the liquid formulation comprises a solvent with amelting point less than 55° C., a boiling point greater than −165° C.,and at least a 15-degree difference between the melting point and theboiling point.
 97. The electronic cigarette of claim 94, wherein theheater has an operating temperature between 150° C. and 250° C.
 98. Acartomizer for an electronic cigarette comprising the formulation ofclaim 81, a fluid storage compartment, and an atomizer comprising aheating element in fluid communication with the formulation.
 99. Acartridge for use in an electronic cigarette comprising a fluid storagecompartment containing the formulation of claim
 81. 100. A kitcomprising: (a) an electronic cigarette for generating an inhalableaerosol comprising: (i) a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle,(ii) a cartridge comprising a fluid storage compartment, wherein thefluid storage compartment stores a formulation of claim 81, (iii) aheater, (iv) a battery, and (v) a mouthpiece; and (b) instructions forusing the electronic cigarette to generate an inhalable aerosol.
 101. Amethod of preparing a liquid cannabinoid formulation comprising: (a)introducing a suitable organic solvent to a cannabis plant or partthereof to form a neat mixture comprising a cannabinoid extract, (b)purging the organic solvent out of the neat mixture at ambient orelevated temperature to form a purged cannabinoid extract, and (c)diluting the purged cannabinoid extract with a biologically acceptableliquid carrier comprising glycerol, vegetable glycerin, propyleneglycol, trimethylene glycol, water, or ethanol.
 102. The method of claim101, wherein the organic solvent is completely purged from thecannabinoid extract prior to diluting with the carrier mixture.
 103. Themethod of claim 101, wherein the carrier comprises a solution of 8:2 or3:7 ratio by weight of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin.
 104. Themethod of claim 101, further comprising adding one or more exogenousflavorants to the carrier.
 105. The method of claim 101, wherein thecannabinoid extract comprises two or more cannabinoids.
 106. A method ofadministering cannabinoids comprising, heating the formulation of claim81 to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising one or more cannabinoids,and inhaling the aerosol.
 107. The method of claim 106, wherein theformulation is heated with an electronic cigarette operated at between150° C. and 250° C.
 108. The method of claim 106, wherein the whereinthe aerosol comprises a condensate of one or more cannabinoids.
 109. Themethod of claim 108, wherein the condensate comprises particle sizesfrom about 0.1 microns to about 5 microns, from about 0.1 microns toabout 1 or 2 microns, from about 0.1 microns to about 0.7 microns, orfrom about 0.3 microns to about 0.4 microns.
 110. The method of claim106, wherein the aerosol comprises about 0.5% to about 50% (w/w)cannabinoid.
 111. The method of claim 106, wherein inhaling the aerosolresults in a maximum blood cannabinoid concentration (C_(max)) over 10ng/mL.
 112. The method of claim 106, wherein inhaling the aerosolresults in a maximum blood cannabinoid concentration (C_(max)) isbetween 10 ng/mL and 16 ng/mL, is between 11 ng/mL and 15 ng/mL, orbetween 11 ng/mL and 14 ng/mL.
 113. The method of claim 106, whereininhaling the aerosol results in a time at which the maximumconcentration of cannabinoid is measured (T_(max)) of under 25 minutes,under 20 minutes, under 15 minutes, or under 10 minutes.
 114. The methodof claim 106, wherein inhaling the aerosol results in a time at whichthe maximum concentration of cannabinoid is measured (T_(max)) ofbetween 3 minutes to 7.5 minutes.